Optimising berth planning with data and advanced analytics for DP World

The travel distances go through the roof

At DP World’s Antwerp Gateway Container Terminal, efficient vessel planning is essential to keep cargo moving smoothly through the terminal. Every berth decision has an impact on how containers are transported across the site, and an inefficient setup can lead to significant additional driving for straddle carriers. In some cases, the total distance travelled could exceed 1,000 kilometres per ship.

With millions of operational transactions generated every day, DP World saw an opportunity to use its data more effectively to support these planning decisions.

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Turning operational data into better planning decisions

DP World built a central data platform that brings together information from multiple software systems and makes it available through dynamic analytics. This created a single foundation for operational insights, dashboards and data-driven decision-making across the terminal.

Building on this foundation, DP World and EpicData developed a berth planning simulation tool. The solution uses data about the containers that need to be loaded and unloaded to determine the most efficient berth location for each vessel.

Planners can simulate different scenarios and use advanced optimisation algorithms to compare possible arrangements before a vessel arrives. This allows them to choose a setup that minimises unnecessary container movements across the terminal.

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Saving more than 250,000 milometres every year

The results show the direct value of using data for operational optimisation. The solution saves more than 250,000 kilometres of straddle carrier travel every year.

By reducing unnecessary driving, DP World also lowers fuel consumption and labour requirements. At the same time, planners have a practical tool that helps them make faster, more informed decisions.

The berth planning solution is one example of how DP World uses its broader data platform to move beyond reporting and turn operational data into measurable improvements.